Exploring North Karnataka in Six Days

  1. Day 1: Explore Hampi
    4 hours 24 minutes (254 km) from Bangalore

    Hampi offers a glimpse into India's rich cultural heritage and history. Visit the Vittala Temple, Mahanavami Dibba, and climb to the top of Matanga Hill before enjoying the sunset over the Tungabhadra river.

  2. Day 2: Badami and Aihole
    2 hours 47 minutes (145 km) from Hampi

    Badami town is known for its rock-cut temples and cave shrines. Visit the Banashankari temple and the Bhutanatha group of temples. Afterward, head to the ancient town of Aihole to explore its numerous historical temples and monuments.

  3. Day 3: Pattadakal and Bijapur
    2 hours 28 minutes (117 km) from Badami

    Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pattadakal's architectural wonders. Then, continue on to Bijapur to see the Gol Gumbaz mausoleum with the second-largest dome in the world.

  4. Day 4: Historical Hubli
    4 hours 9 minutes (165 km) from Bijapur

    Explore the city's historical temples and monuments like the Chandramouleshwara Temple and the Navagraha Jain Temple. Visit Unkal Lake to relax and take a stroll on the dam.

  5. Day 5: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and Gokarna Beach
    3 hours 16 minutes (150 km) from Hubli

    Head to the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary for a nature walk and bird watching. Afterward, head to Gokarna Beach to relax and enjoy the pristine surroundings, Om Beach and the Mahabaleshwar Temple.

  6. Day 6: Beaches and Forts in Karwar
    1 hour 31 minutes (63.3 km) from Gokarna

    Visit Devbagh Beach for thrilling water sports and the Sadashivgad Fort to enjoy the stunning view of the sea. Walk through the charming town and enjoy some seafood at one of the local restaurants.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Vittala Temple (2-3 hours, $1.50 admission fee)
  • Mahanavami Dibba (1-2 hours, $1.50 admission fee)
  • Banashankari temple (1 hour, free admission)
  • Bhutanatha group of temples (1-2 hours, free admission)
  • Pattadakal (2-3 hours, $2.50 admission fee)
  • Gol Gumbaz mausoleum (1 hour, $3.00 admission fee)
  • Chandramouleshwara Temple (1 hour, free admission)
  • Navagraha Jain Temple (1 hour, free admission)
  • Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary (3-4 hours, $1.50 admission fee)
  • Mahabaleshwar Temple (1-2 hours, free admission)
  • Sadashivgad Fort (1-2 hours, free admission)

  • Total Estimated Costs: $13.50

Useful tips

This itinerary covers a lot of ground, so it's best to have a rental car to get around. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or take public transportation, but it may take longer. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat as you will be doing a lot of walking. Remember to stay hydrated, carry snacks and a water bottle with you. If you have more time, consider adding in more days to explore each location more leisurely.

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